Now Commenting On:

Girardi family appreciates outpouring of support

Girardi family appreciates outpouring of support

10/14/12: Joe Girardi talks about second base umpire Jeff Nelson's missed call in Game 2 of the ALCS and the expanded use of instant replay

By Andrew Simon
/
Special to MLB.com |

The family of Yankees manager Joe Girardi issued a statement on Monday, the day funeral services were to be held in Tampico, Ill., for Girardi's father, Jerry.

Jerry Girardi died on Oct. 6 in Metamora, Ill., at age 81, following an extended battle with advanced Alzheimer's disease. The Yankees skipper was scheduled to attend the funeral on the off-day between Games 2 and 3 of the American League Championship Series.

"We deeply appreciate the overwhelming support that has been shown to us during this difficult time," the Girardi family said in the statement. "Our father would have been touched by all the kindness shown to our family as we mourn his passing.

"As saddened as we are with his loss, we take solace in knowing that he lives on through the principles he passed down to us and in the many wonderful memories we have of him."

The Yankees lost the first two games of the best-of-seven ALCS in New York, with Game 3 set for Tuesday in Detroit (8 p.m. ET on TBS). Both teams canceled Monday's scheduled workouts at Comerica Park.

Girardi said he had insisted his players use the day to rest and prepare for their next game, rather than join him at the funeral. But the Yankees still have their manager on their mind.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family," center fielder Curtis Granderson said on Sunday. "It's an unfortunate loss and, obviously, the timing isn't the best, but that's part of it and that's life. Baseball is a game, and life goes on -- win, lose or draw. But his family will be there for him, giving him support, and this is part of an extension of his family. We'll be out, ready to go for him on Tuesday."

Andrew Simon is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.